Should I Visit Seoul or Tokyo? Which is Better for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Music? Which is Cheaper? Which is More Expensive? | Budget Your Trip (2024)

Should you visit Seoul or Tokyo?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Seoul and Tokyo can help you decide which place is right for you.

Seoul

Seoul is a colorful, cultural, and bustling city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Tokyo

Tokyo is a iconic, eclectic, and cutting edge city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Seoul and Tokyo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Seoul or Tokyo?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Tokyo than Seoul. While Seoul is larger than Tokyo, Tokyo has more sights and attractions for tourists. Tokyo is more touristy than Seoul and is popular for its ultramodern skyscrapers, neon lights, historic temples, lively karaoke bars, and peaceful parks. It is also home to The Sensō-ji Temple. Seoul is popular for its shopping malls, colorful street markets, beautiful parks, and vibrant energy.

How is Seoul different from Tokyo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Tokyo and Seoul. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Seoul or Tokyo?

Tokyo is very popular for its sights and museums. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Tokyo are among the most recognizable in the world. This iconic city is filled with recognizable landmarks and world class museums including the Meiji Shrine, the Sensō-ji Temple, and the Tokyo Skytree.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Seoul can be an interesting and educational experience. The museums and landmarks are diverse, with notable sights including N Seoul Tower, the Bukchon Hanok Traditional Village, and the National Museum of Korea.

Is the Food Better in Seoul or Tokyo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Seoul and Tokyo offer world-class local cuisine and restaurants.

Seoul has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Food is a cultural obsession here, and you'll find everything from world class street food to award winning restaurants. The dishes are so much more diverse than Korean barbecue and kimchi. Many dishes are very spicy, with popular local foods including gamjatang (pork and potato soup) and jeon (savory pancakes).

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Tokyo is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. With an astonishing number of Michelin star restaurants, this is one of the most interesting and impressive food destinations in the world. Not all restaurants are high end though. You'll find plenty of cheap eateries that offer their own rewarding culinary experience. Must try local dishes include okonomiyaki, ramen, and of course, sushi.

Is Seoul or Tokyo Better for Nightlife?

Tokyo is very popular for nightlife and partying. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Tokyo is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The professional urgency that you feel during the day morphs into a vibrant, laid back city at night. The neon lights turn on and locals head out to destress. There are karaoke bars, casual pubs, high energy nightclubs, and more. Popular areas for nightlife include Roppongi, Shibuya and Shinjuku.

Seoul has a large number of nightlife venues. This is definitely a work hard/play hard city, with locals working long hours during the day and then partying hard late into the night. The nightlife scene is strong both during the week and on weekends. There are bars, clubs, and lounges that are frequented by locals and tourists alike.

Is Seoul or Tokyo Better for Music?

Both Seoul and Tokyo offer world-class live music venues.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Seoul K-pop has put the city on the map for music, but you'll actually find a wide range of genres here including rock music and electronic dance music.

Tokyo has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The music scene features both national and international artists and the music style is as eclectic as the city itself. You'll find many underground venues, vintage record stores, and local bars that have each created their own niche.

Is the Shopping Better in Seoul or Tokyo?

Both Seoul and Tokyo are world-class shopping destinations.

The abundance of shops in Seoul make it a world-class shopping destination. This bustling city offers traditional local items as well as Korean cosmetics and trendy fashion. Although shopping malls are spread throughout the city, some of the most popular shopping areas are found around Myeong-dong and Dongdaemun.

Many people travel to Tokyo specifically to go shopping. The city is known for its electronics, anime products, and trendy fashion brands. Many neighborhoods are also shopping districts with malls or markets throughout. Prices can be steep, but products are generally high quality. For some of the city's best shopping, head to Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Ginza.

Is Seoul or Tokyo Better for Families?

Tokyo is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Tokyo is one of the most popular family destinations. This is an incredibly kid-friendly city. There's Disneyland, but there are also many other entertainment centers, amusem*nt areas, a zoo, aquarium, and more. Kids will also enjoy experiencing the city's fascinating culture. They can visit temples, museums, and the Tokyo Tower. Another fun local experience is to go to a baseball game.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Seoul. The city has a wide range of kid-friendly activities, ranging from the easy choices like amusem*nt parks and children's museums, to the less obvious like kid-friendly cafes and markets. There are many entertainment options packed into a small space, so kids and adults alike will stay entertained.

Is Seoul or Tokyo Better for Couples?

Both Seoul and Tokyo are great destinations to visit as a couple.

Seoul is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples enjoy the beautiful viewpoints, outdoor parks, and diverse restaurants. There are also many beautiful luxury hotels where couples can enjoy a romantic getaway.

Tokyo makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This high tech city offers luxury hotels and spas, award winning restaurants, and unique date night opportunities like karaoke or sushi making classes. The city has many parks and gardens as well as malls, dynamic neighborhoods, and interesting museums.

Is Seoul or Tokyo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Seoul and Tokyo are good destinations for backpackers.

Seoul is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The city isn't the most popular among backpackers, but those who visit will enjoy exploring a fascinating culture and delicious cuisine. Because it's a large city, you'll find a diversity of accommodation options including some budget-friendly hostels and hotels.

It's common for backpackers to visit Tokyo. Known for it's high prices, it can be a bit difficult to visit this city on a budget. There are dorm rooms available but they still come with a high price tag. Food is a bit easier as the eateries are diverse with many options on the cheaper side.

Is Seoul or Tokyo Better for Students?

Tokyo is very popular for students. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over the world to visit Tokyo. The city attracts many international students and there are a number of prestigious universities to choose from. Perhaps the biggest challenge is navigating the language difference, but that is all part of the experience when studying abroad.

Seoul is a great city to visit as a student. Many international students head to Seoul National University, which has an excellent academic reputation. The city is also fun and energetic, so everyone will be entertained.

Is Seoul or Tokyo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Seoul and Tokyo offer world-class public transit options.

Seoul has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The modern and clean transportation system includes both a subway and buses.

With a huge network, the transit system in Tokyo can get you around easily. Trains, subways, and buses make up the complex transportation system and, while it may seem overwhelming at first, the system is actually very clean, efficient, and reliable.

Is Seoul or Tokyo a more walkable city?

Tokyo is very popular for its high level of walkability. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Tokyo on foot. Many neighborhoods are very easy to explore on foot, so it's fun to just wander without a plan, seeing where you end up.

Seoul is a very walkable destination. Many neighborhoods are fun to explore on foot but do take note that parts of the city are very hilly and the weather can be bitter cold during the winter months.

For even more information, also check out Is Seoul Worth Visiting? and Is Tokyo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Tokyo or Seoul?

How long in Seoul or Tokyo?

Both Seoul and Tokyo have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Tokyo has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Tokyo than Seoul. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Tokyo than Seoul. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Tokyo, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Tokyo than Seoul. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Tokyo that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tokyo than Seoul if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Tokyo.

One day in Seoul or Tokyo?

Each neighborhood in Seoul has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Tokyo, many people enjoy the live music and food that this eclectic big city offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Seoul or Tokyo?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Seoul. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tokyo. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Seoul or Tokyo?

Seoul is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Seoul has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Tokyo is a fun place to experience. In Tokyo, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this big city destination offers. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Seoul or Tokyo?

Each neighborhood in Seoul has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

In Tokyo, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this high energy big city offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Seoul and Tokyo, we can see that Tokyo is more expensive. And not only is Seoul much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Seoul would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Seoul and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Tokyo would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Tokyo than you might in Seoul.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Seoul Expensive? and Is Tokyo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Seoul or Tokyo?

Seoul has a larger population, and is about 24% larger than the population of Tokyo. When comparing the sizes of Seoul and Tokyo, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Seoul or Tokyo?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Seoul or Tokyo in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Seoul as well as Tokyo. Most visitors come to Seoul for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Tokyo because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Seoul is around the same temperature as Tokyo. Typically, the summer temperatures in Seoul in July average around 26°C (78°F), and Tokyo averages at about 26°C (78°F).

In the summer, Seoul often gets less sunshine than Tokyo. Seoul gets 121 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tokyo receives 137 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Tokyo. Seoul receives a lot of rain in the summer. Seoul usually gets more rain in July than Tokyo. Seoul gets 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seoul or Tokyo in the Autumn?

Both Tokyo and Seoul are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Seoul because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Tokyo this time of year.

In October, Seoul is generally cooler than Tokyo. Daily temperatures in Seoul average around 15°C (59°F), and Tokyo fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Seoul. Seoul usually receives more sunshine than Tokyo during autumn. Seoul gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Tokyo receives 129 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tokyo. In October, Seoul usually receives less rain than Tokyo. Seoul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Seoul or Tokyo in the Winter?

Both Tokyo and Seoul during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Seoul this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Tokyo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Seoul in the winter. Seoul is much colder than Tokyo in the winter. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around -3°C (27°F) in January, and Tokyo fluctuates around 5°C (42°F).

In the winter, Seoul often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Tokyo. Seoul gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tokyo receives 175 hours of full sun.

Seoul usually gets less rain in January than Tokyo. Seoul gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seoul or Tokyo in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Seoul and Tokyo. Many travelers come to Seoul for the activities around the city. Furthermore, many visitors come to Tokyo in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Seoul is cooler than Tokyo. Typically, the spring temperatures in Seoul in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Tokyo averages at about 14°C (58°F).

In Seoul, it's very sunny this time of the year. Seoul usually receives more sunshine than Tokyo during spring. Seoul gets 205 hours of sunny skies, while Tokyo receives 161 hours of full sun in the spring.

Tokyo receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Seoul usually receives less rain than Tokyo. Seoul gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Tokyo and Seoul